With the holiday season upons us, you should be aware of the potential for increased residential break-ins and larceny from autos.  Here are a few things you can do to avoid becoming a victim this holiday season:

*  Request a Vacation Home check through Crime Prevention website at www.stopcrime.us as well as letting your neighbors know you will be out of town.
*  After the holidays, do not advertise gifts received by leaving boxes for garbage collection. 
*  Do not leave your garage door opener openly displayed in your car.  Keep the door leading from your garage to your house locked at all times.
*  Try to keep your garage door closed as much as possible.  It only takes a minute for someone to gain access to your home.
*  Stop your newspaper and mail deliveries if you will be out of town for an extended period of time
*  Put your interior lights on timers
*  Have a neighbor park their car in your driveway

Parking Lot Tips:

*  Shop early and avoid evening darkness
*  Park in a high visibility area
*  Do not park next to a vehicle with dark tinted windows
*  Prior to arriving at shopping centers, lock all your valuables in your trunk
*  Leave the store with others – not alone
*  Walk briskly, confidently and directly through the parking lot.
*  Be cautious of people handing out flyers or asking questions in the parking area
*  Watch for people following you.  This can occur inside as well as outside.
*  If you suspect someone following you, report it to security immediately.

As always, call 911 for emergencies.

We hope you have a happy and safe holiday season.